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Discharge Instructions for Open Rotator Cuff Repair

You had a procedure called open rotator cuff repair. The rotator cuff consists of the muscles and tendons that surround your shoulder. The rotator cuff keeps the top of your upper arm bone (humerus) securely in the shoulder joint. Your doctor made an incision near your shoulder blade and repaired the torn muscles or tendons in your shoulder. Here are instructions to follow when caring for your arm at home.

Activity

You may be told to do daily “pendulum swings” to improve your joint’s flexibility. Use your torso to move your arm in a circle as it hangs straight down, first in one direction, then the other.

After surgery, rest your arm and relax for the rest of day.

If you had general anesthesia (were put to sleep for the procedure), don’t operate power tools or machinery, drink alcohol, or make any major decisions for at least 24 hours following surgery.

Your incision was closed using sutures, staples, or strips of tape. If you have sutures or staples, they may need to be removed 2-3 weeks after surgery. Allow the strips of tape to fall off on their own.

Other home care

Use pain medication as directed by your doctor.

Apply an ice pack or bag of frozen peas—or something similar—wrapped in a thin towel on your shoulder to reduce swelling for the first 48 hours. Leave the ice pack on for 20 minutes; then take it off for 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.

Take your temperature daily for 7 days after your surgery. Report a fever above 100.4°F (38°C) to your doctor. Fever may be a sign of infection.

Follow-up

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.

When to seek medical attention

Call 911 right away if you have any of the following:

Chest pain

Shortness of breath

Otherwise, call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following:

Increasing shoulder pain or pain not relieved by medication

Pain or swelling in the arm on the side of your surgery

Numbness, tingling, coolness, or blue-gray color of your arm or fingers on the side of your surgery